The best traffic-free bike rides around Alicante

The Alicante region offers over 30 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult. You'll find a diverse mix of terrain, from Greenways to challenging mountain passes, ensuring a varied experience for gravel bikers.

Alicante's gravel trails are incredibly varied, reflecting the region's diverse landscape. You can expect a mix of asphalt, narrow roads, and forest tracks, often leading through natural parks and past reservoirs. Many routes utilize the extensive network of Greenways (Vías Verdes), which are disused railway lines converted into cycling paths, offering smoother gravel sections. Inland, you'll encounter mountainous terrain with significant elevation changes, while coastal routes might feature marshlands and sea views.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for moderate riders. For example, the First tunnel from Agost – Maigmó Greenway loop from Agost is a moderate 32.7 km route with manageable elevation, perfect for experiencing the region's Greenways. The First tunnel from Agost – Maigmó Greenway loop from Cargador EV Wenea offers a similar moderate experience over 24.8 km.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty and points of interest. You might pass by reservoirs like the Amadorio Reservoir or the Elche Reservoir and Waterfall. The region is also rich in natural parks, such as the Pego-Oliva Marsh Nature Reserve, offering diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like the Alicante Balcony or the Reservoir viewpoint for panoramic vistas.

The pleasant climate of Alicante, especially in spring and autumn, makes these seasons ideal for gravel biking. The temperatures are mild, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. While the routes are designed to be traffic-free, these shoulder seasons generally see fewer visitors than the peak summer months, ensuring a more serene experience on the trails.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Alicante offers several long and demanding no-traffic gravel routes. The Alto de Busot – Busot Town Center loop from Busot is a difficult 105.9 km route with nearly 2,900 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Tibi Pass – Altiplano loop from MARQ-Castillo, covering 102.1 km with over 1,600 meters of climbing.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Alicante, with an average score of 4.28 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible diversity of the landscape, from rugged mountains and serene valleys to extensive Greenways and picturesque coastlines. The absence of traffic on these dedicated routes is consistently highlighted as a major benefit, allowing for peaceful and immersive rides through nature.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Alicante are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Puerto del Espino and La Torre de les Maçanes – loop from Busot, a difficult 57.6 km circular route, and the moderate Greenways loops mentioned earlier. This makes planning your ride and return journey much more convenient.

Many no-traffic gravel trails in Alicante traverse or are adjacent to the region's numerous natural parks. These include areas like Serra Mariola, the Almudaina mountain range, and the Serra Gross. You might also find routes near the Pego-Oliva Marsh Nature Reserve or the natural park of the lagoons of La Mata and Torrevieja, offering unique ecological landscapes and birdwatching opportunities.

The more difficult no-traffic gravel routes in Alicante, particularly those in the mountainous inland areas, can feature significant elevation changes. For instance, the Alto de Busot – Busot Town Center loop from Busot involves nearly 2,900 meters of ascent, while the Puerto del Espino and La Torre de les Maçanes – loop from Busot has over 1,200 meters of climbing. These routes offer challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, rewarding riders with stunning views.